Town Square

Is anyone as devastated as I am about what's happening with Father Padraig

Original post made
by Jana, Country Fair,
on Nov 14, 2007

I moved to Pleasanton 10 years ago. I distinctly remember experiencing one of Father Padraig's sermons at St. Elizabeth Seton and it was that day that I was excited to be a Catholic again. But with this new information surfacing I am devastated. How is the Catholic Community supposed to respond to this? I know that our faith reinforces forgiveness but how many of you can look at this man again without thinking about what has happened? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this as I'd like to keep an objective point of view.

Posted by Matt Morrison
a resident of Pleasanton Meadows
on Nov 14, 2007 at 10:35 am

The Catholic Church as an institution bears some responsibility for the vilification of Father Padraig by historically covering up child sexual abuse allegations.

That said, this situation is not about abuse. No one is alleging that Father Padraig abused anyone.

The issue is more about the insecurity many people feel about masturbation, a completely normal (our former Surgeon General Jocelyn Elders would say healthy) form of human sexual activity.

Certainly the location in a public (albeit secluded) restroom was inappropriate, hence Father Padraig's arrest.

I can imagine that acting on completely normal human feelings when one lives, as does a priest, in essentially part of a church would provoke a mental conflict and a desire not to despoil a holy place (not a far fetched idea, in the past women were often not allowed in some churches because they might be menstruating).

If the inference is that the act of masturbation itself is worthy of rebuke then who among us is without sin and will cast the first stone?

In the current political environment with the Catholic Church paying millions of dollars to settle abuse claims that if there were any evidence that Father Pagraig was a threat or unfit to lead the Catholic Communities of Pleasanton he would not have been selected.

This episode represents an opportunity for anyone interested to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the precepts of Christianity. Yes, what would Jesus do?

It is humbling to understand that someone who represents the leadership of St. Augustine and St. Elizabeth Seton has human feelings and acted on them in a flawed, but non-abusive, fashion. Perhaps this humbling is not a bad thing.

People have fear because of the cover-up that the Catholic Church did in the past. They are afraid that there is more to this story than they are being told. Maybe this priest would be better in an office setting in Oakland.

I strongly agree with Matt and can't think of anything to add. If Christ could forgive us our sins, should we not do the same? I have known Father Padraig since the first day he joined our community. He is a compassionate priest, who has done nothing but good since then and is held in high esteem by everyone I know. Those that want to stone him should try going to churh more often than Easter and Christmas.

Posted by Robert
a resident of Amador Estates
on Nov 14, 2007 at 12:08 pm

Matt, you could not have summarized this situation any better. Thank you for speaking on behalf of many. Many of us have done things we regret...if we are going to bring children into every situation, how about people who have had drunk driving arrests, people struggling with alcolism, people with depression, etc-are our children unfit to be around these people? The incident with Father Padraig did not involve any other person, let alone children. Father Padraig has helped many in our community. To give him an office job in Oakland would be a dis-service to CCOP.

I really hope Joe L comment about being a C & E church attender was not directed at me. As I attend church every Sunday and am also a Sunday school teacher. Do you all not think being caught doing what he was doing in public is not just a little strange? People view this as deviant behavior and are afraid that there is more to the story than they are being told. The Catholic church has done this in the past and that is why people do not trust it. The sad thing is this will divide the Catholic community here in P-town.

Marie, I stand by your commments. That's why I originally posted my concern. I am in no means accusing Father Padraig of any sort of act towards a child (Matt, you opened up a can of worms on that one -although your posting is objective and in no means implies that he was involved with children, the mere fact that you brought it up will be like spreading a fire). The issue of what he did is only a very small part of this conflict; I am more concerned with the fact that it wasn't disclosed. After all that has happened in the Catholic Church pertaining to sexual misconduct, I am disappointed that this came out the way it did. And let's be candid.... masturbation is a very normal act - but not in a public restroom.

Posted by Stacey
a resident of Amberwood/Wood Meadows
on Nov 14, 2007 at 2:14 pm

Jana,

It is this SNAP group that is making the implication that somehow since Father Padraig was arrested for "lewdness" that now suddenly Pleasanton's children are unsafe. Sure, the Church has a very long history of covering up abuse and needs to be held accountable for that, but SNAP is in the wrong if they go around making implications and accusations against a person that aren't based upon any relevant facts. Sounds like libel almost.

Posted by david
a resident of another community
on Nov 14, 2007 at 2:17 pm

It's very hard for us to understand and accept the fact that someone can be an excellent pastor AND a sex offender. But it's crucial that we DO understand this. Often, the warm, charismatic, outgoing, compassionate personality that makes a clergy person likeable is the same personality that is used to gain access to and ultimately betray innocent kids and/or vulnerable adults

Posted by Chris
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Nov 14, 2007 at 3:02 pm

I find it amazing just as the local press this week some here with their postings want to make more of this than what if fact. The public police report on the incident in 1999 states this was an "individual act" witnessed by the arresting officer. The charges were never filed in the court system. It doesn't make what he did right (far from it), but don't conjecture there is "more to this story" unless you have some other information that you can cite. The other posting that it wasn't disclosed isn't neccessarily accurate. I know that this information has been avaialble on the internet for several years, and I am confident there were those in the know when Father Padraig made his first stay with the church a few years ago.

I say this column needs to come to a stop. This man is being accused of what is presently racing through everyone's mind especially in light of what has been going on in the Catholic church. We should all wait to see what Fr. Dan has to say to his congregation on Sunday. Knowing both Fr. Dan and Fr. Padraig on a personal basis, I'm sure the truth will come out and put people's minds to rest. Too much speculation is going around right now and it's preying right into your minds. This is turning into the same media circus as what happens to our entertainers and politicians. Who among us is without sin and what do you think Jesus would have done? If you want some answers, why don't you try asking Him.

No one is acussing him of anything. Since the article is public information people will read it. I would have hoped that Fr Dan would have given all the info before the papers picked it up then no speculation would be going on. The church brought this on themselves by being less than truthful in the past. People do not trust the Catholic church because of it. I agree with the what would Jesus do, but I don't believe that he would have hidden all the past dirty little secrets, do you?

Posted by Parishoner
a resident of Walnut Grove Elementary School
on Nov 14, 2007 at 4:39 pm

Priets and nuns should allowed to be married...After all, priests and nuns are human. They have human instincts. Father Padriag was acting as humans act (although the choice of place could of been better). Something needs to be done to change this rediculous law of the Church.

Posted by Amy
a resident of Walnut Grove Elementary School
on Nov 14, 2007 at 4:43 pm

I am a teacher and if I was caught doing something like this, I would have my credential revoked. When people make bad choices they have consequences to pay. Yes, I can forgive him, but I do not want to see him as pastor.

Posted by CCOP Member
a resident of Foothill High School
on Nov 14, 2007 at 7:37 pm

First of all, Priests do "marry". When they take the sacrament of Holy Orders, they are commiting to the church, just as when a husband and wife take the sacrament of marriage, they are commiting to each other. I would not go against my marriage vows, just a priest does not go against his vows to the church.

Second, Father Padrig is a wonderful human being. "Human being" is the exact term we should use... For anyone who doubts his crediblility, I ask you to attend some of his masses. Given time, he will prove to you the reason he was chosen for this job. Please do not pass judgement based on the information you hear in the media. Father Padrig is the reason my family's faith has grown stronger over the past 7 years.

Posted by Joey Piscitelli
a resident of another community
on Nov 14, 2007 at 7:51 pm

I am the SNAP leader that brought this to your attention. Not one of your posts addressed the fact that Padraig Greene went to Oakland to a sports park frequented by KIDS. That's why the undercover Police were there to begin with. I'll reiterate: A PARK FOR KIDS! Wake up.
How many of you will drive to Oakland to masturbate at a park bathroom frequented by KIDS? This is abnormal behavior. And do you really think it was the first time he ever went there, and happened just to be unlucky this one time and get caught?
I have met several sex offenders since I have been at SNAP, and all of them are repeat offenders. Sure we can forgive him. Then what?
Forgive him again if he does it again? I am hoping that nobody is willing to test him on their kids, just to prove he won't "become weak" again. And how do you know no kids saw him? The park is full of kids. My bet is if they saw him, they hid and haven't said anything, which is almost always what kids do when this happens.
The very first time I was abused I witnessed a priest masturbating at the boys club- and I never said a word to my parents.
Jesus Christ wants us to forgive, He does not want us to place our kids in potential danger.
Don't think for yourself when you decide to roll dice for Padraig Greene, think for your kids. It is better to Err on the side of caution, then to say later you wish you had been more cautious. I have talked to countless parents who saw the signs, and cried later that they were trying to give an offender Priest the benefit of the doubt, and their kids were molested, because the parents were absolutely sure it wouldn't happen.
We have an obligation to protect our children. And I have seen the results of what happens when parents were fooled.

Posted by Parishoner
a resident of Walnut Grove Elementary School
on Nov 14, 2007 at 8:43 pm

CCOP member of Foothill High Community... I have been a Catholic my whole life. I attended Catholic grammar school, high school, and college. In fact I went to a school where a priest was later charged with embezzelment and having a "undercover relationship" with another man. Now I move to Pleasanton and here we go again! We need priests who people can relate to, feel safe with, and trust. The vocation to priesthood is dwindling. We are getting priests from other countries that are hard to understand and who our children have a hard time relating to. I go to Church on Sunday and often find myself disconnected. I respect traditions, that's a reason why I go to Church and am still a Catholic. All I am saying is that perhaps if priests were allowed to get married many of these situations can be avoided and we can have a better selection of more qualified priests and not have to cover up their mistakes.

Posted by Lewis, a CCOP Member
a resident of Dublin
on Nov 14, 2007 at 8:53 pm

As an active member of CCOP, I am shocked and dismayed to know that this kind of person has been chosen to lead our wonderful parish. Most of us have not experienced what a child goes through when this kind of things happen. The child realizes the effect only after becoming an adult. By that time, that child, who is an adult by now, would have undergone enormous amount of psychological damage, which will never be cured to the fullest extent. I have seen this in one of my close friends. If the parish council knew about this incident, then the parishioners should have been informed about this before the selection was made. Since it was not done, it makes me to believe that they wanted to cover this up and expose our innocent children to this man. We should thank Joey Piscitelli for bringing this to our attention. Though I am willing to forgive this man, I am not willing to accept this man as my Pastor. Those who have a strong feeling about this should speak up and let our Pastor and the parish council know that we do not want to have him as a Pastor in our parish.

Posted by Henry, a CCOP Member
a resident of Ruby Hill
on Nov 14, 2007 at 9:34 pm

The posting on the church website was posted only after the SNAP started distributing flyers. Though I agree that we are all sinners, we do expect our leaders to be role models to us and our children. Pastor is someone who needs to guide the parish both morally and spiritually. I have to borrow a sentence from Jana's posting, which states "how many of you can look at this man again without thinking about what has happened?" I am not saying that Fr Greene is a child molestor. He may be a good human being now. But the choices that he made in the past makes him not suitable for the position of Pastor to guide his flock morally and spiritually.

I can and I do. I knew about Fr. Greene's past when he first joined our community. After getting to know him I learned he is a wonderful, caring human being. When I look at him I see the gifts he has brought to our community. I hope when my friends look at me they see the good things I have done and not all of the mistakes I have made.

Fr. Padriag Greene was arrested by the Oakland Police Department. A vice squad policeman observed him engaging in lewd behavior. What exactly was Fr. Greene doing? The Diocese of Oakland has a policy of No More Secrets so please educate the congregation re: details to clarify Fr. Greene's "lewd" behavior. People need accurate information to make informed decisions.
In my opinion, Fr. Greene has poor impulse control. Poor impulse control led to his being present in a public toilet the night of the sex sting; such poor judgment is noteworthy. It raises the concern that he could once again engage in another offensive public display of "lewd" behavior. The toilet where Fr. Greene was arrested is a known site where homosexuals gather to negotiate sexual liaisons.
We are all imperfect and we are all sinners. But, how many adult males that attend the Pleasanton Catholic Community Churches have been arrested for hanging out in public toilets?
Fr. Greene chose to be present in the toilet even though it was quite a distance from where he lives? Healthy adults know that loitering in a toilet and displaying body parts for others to see is illegal. How come he was arrested during a sex sting?
The Diocese of Oakland is trying to make Fr. Greene's behavior invisible. The Diocese of Oakland is attempting to minimize Fr. Greene's behavior so that he or the diocese is not held accountable.
Nobody has explained what the "treatment" is that Fr. Greene received in St. Louis. What exactly is the treatment model? Can Fr. Greene publicly explain how the treatment works? Can the treatment providers show the congregation any longitudinal studies that prove that their particular treatment model works over time? An adult with such poor impulse control and poor judgment is capable of committing such offensive behavior again, and again, and again! Fr. Greene poses a risk to all children and vulnerable adults. I challenge Fr. Greene and the Diocese of Oakland to prove otherwise.
Fr. Greene's dangerous behavior is not about being Catholic or a homosexual agenda or whether or not there was a conviction; Fr. Greene and Bishop Vigneron must be held accountable for allowing Fr. Greene to be quietly placed in a position where there is a risk that he might abuse innocent others. I forgive Fr. Greene. I also acknowledge that he has done many good deeds. But, Fr. Greene was arrested in a public toilet, a site where homosexuals meet to engage in sexual liaisons and he was observed engaging in "lewd" behavior.
Are parents of the CCOP willing to allow their male children to be alone in the presence of Fr. Greene? If so why or why not?
In my opinion, Fr. Greene poses a danger to the young people and vulnerable adults of the CCOP. Children have a right to be safe and to feel safe. Nobody has right to harm them or to put them at risk.
PLEASE do not support the appointment of Fr. Padraig Greene as the next Pastor of the CCOP.

Hi Fr. Dan, what exactly do you mean by "indecent exposure". Fr. Greene must be held accountable for his behavior. We all know that none of us are perfect and that we are all sinners. Fr. Greene was busted for cruising a tea room and letting his stuff hang out? So please splain what that has to do with imperfection? It is about poor impulse control, poor judgement and behavior that is plain ole nasty and illegal. Can you prove that no children were present Fr. Dan? I doubt it. Child prostitutes often gather in the area near the toilet to pick up johns for money. Why not invite the Oakland Police Department Vice Squad to discuss what they know about the park/toilet/cruising/johns/sexual predators/child prostitution? They don't have to mention anything about Fr. Greene, simply what happens there on a daily basis. Ask the for details re: why they chose to have a sting at that particular toilet? In my opinion, this whole mess is of the bishops making and he somehow is being missed in all of this. Tragic but still, he must be held accountable for his shameful behavior. God Bless Fr. Greene. Hopefully, God will find a place for him elsewhere in the diocese.

Posted by Parishoner
a resident of Pleasanton Middle School
on Nov 15, 2007 at 12:56 am

If a person was barred from teaching or volunteering in a Pleasanton classroom because of child safety issues, why would you want that person as the shepherd of your flock? I guess Pleasanton schools are more careful with our children than Bishop Allen Vigneron and the Catholic Church.

Posted by Matt Morrison
a resident of Pleasanton Meadows
on Nov 15, 2007 at 2:43 am

Please note that Father Padraig was not convicted and, if his hypothetical teaching credentials had been revoked based on the arrest only, he would have been eligible to apply for reinstatement in 2000. Father Padraig has demonstrated documented evidence of rehabilitation as defined under the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Father Dan states that the incident occurred on a Tuesday, March 2nd, at 2pm. I expect kids were in school and the North Oakland Sports Complex was vacant.

This is from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing…

Will the Commission automatically deny or revoke credentials for some offenses?

Yes, the law prohibits the Commission from issuing any credential to and requires the Commission to revoke a credential already issued to a person:
· who has been convicted of any sex offense defined under Education Code Section 44010
§ 314. Indecent exposure
Every person who willfully and lewdly, either:
1. Exposes his person, or the private parts thereof, in any public place, or in any place where there are present other persons to be offended or annoyed thereby; or,
2. Procures, counsels, or assists any person so to expose himself or take part in any model artist exhibition, or to make any other exhibition of himself to public view, or the view of any number of persons, such as is offensive to decency, or is adapted to excite to vicious or lewd thoughts or acts, is guilty of a misdemeanor.

"Sexual misconduct" is:

(2) acts or conduct defined in Education Code section 44010 whether or not the applicant or holder was convicted or arrested;

What does the Committee consider when it reviews an allegation of misconduct?

When reviewing allegations of misconduct, the Commission and the Committee consider the nature and severity of the offense, its relationship to teaching, the recency of the acts or crimes, compliance with court sanctions, and any evidence of rehabilitation.

The burden of proof lies with the applicant to demonstrate documented evidence of rehabilitation. Examples of such rehabilitative evidence include:
· A recent, dated letter from the applicant describing rehabilitative efforts or changes made to prevent future problems
· Letters on official letterhead from professional counselors, instructors, employers, probation or parole officers, especially persons with knowledge of the alleged misconduct
· Letters from recognized recovery programs and/or counselors attesting to current sobriety and length of time of sobriety, if there is a history of alcohol or drug abuse
· Proof of community work, schooling, or other self-improvement efforts
· Certified court orders expunging the criminal record, such as a reduction from felony to misdemeanor, or certificate of rehabilitation and/or pardon
· Current mental status examination by a clinical psychologist, including psychological testing, if applicable
If a credential is revoked, is it permanent?

Someone who has his or her credential revoked may apply for reinstatement, one year after the effective date of the revocation. The matter is then considered by the Commission.

Criminals are often charged with crimes against people (assault, for example) but plead down to lesser offenses (like disturbing the peace). Since Fr. Greene copped a plea, we can't be sure whether his crime involved kids or adults.

Posted by Maria
a resident of Pleasanton Meadows
on Nov 15, 2007 at 7:44 am

I'm just glad that Jesus is much more forgiving and understanding then some of our fellow parishoners. The judgement you show others will be used to judge you. I'm not saying be ignorant. Be informed, protect your child, but do not unjustly fabricate charges against Father Greene.

Jesus did not ban the sinner from the community, but rather used love and compassion to bring the sinner back into the community, to strenthen and enhance the community.

Father Greene has done much to strengthen our community, during his time with us he established support programs for the greiving and family life. We know and love him. Please do not turn your back on him now when he needs our support.

Posted by Need More Info
a resident of San Ramon
on Nov 15, 2007 at 7:47 am

The issue is not about how people feel about "masturbation". Fr. Padgaig drove to a toilet that is known to attract homosexual males and child prostitutes. He made a decision to "masturbate" for all to see. This is very unhealthy behavior by any responsible adult male. Poor kids that prostitute often ditch school to make money so that they can eat, buy clothes, and drugs. It's probable that kids may have observed Fr. Padraig "masturbating". The issue is not what Jesus would do but what more does the congregation want to know and do you want a Pastor who engages in "lewd" behavior that is offensive to the public and strongly suggestive of an underlying mental illness? Nobody overcomes such disturbed behavior in a mere 6 months of "treatment". Psychotherapy, prayer, rest but not even that in a mega dose will permanently change the kind of behavior Fr. Padraig has exhibited. (portion of comment removed by PW staff) In my opinion, Fr. Padraig is mentally ill and his offensive behavior is split off, it hangs out in left field and comes into play when he feel horny, which may be quite often. Fr. Padraig still needs help and placing him a position of Pastor is not what he needs to feel safe again. I don't think that Fr. Padraig feels internally safe knowing that his offensive behavior is out of his control.

Posted by Joey Piscitelli
a resident of another community
on Nov 15, 2007 at 8:03 am

How many of you would still protect Fr. Greene if you heard from 3 local mothers who's children were raped and molested by Catholic Priests AFTER the Priests left Abuse Therapy at a Catholic center?

I can bring them to your community to share their stories.
To the person who said that Fr. Greene was arrested at 2 in the afternoon, and KIDS were probably not present, how do you know they weren't? How do you know he wasn't there the day before?
And, does the time of day makes it better for him?

For example: We teach our kids that taking drugs, even if it's "cool" and others do it, why do something that is a potential risk to your health?
As parents, we always coose the caution side of an issue to protect them.

I am seeing some parents here teaching their kids that even though there is a potential risk, the "cool" parents with modern thinking are willing to place their kids at a potential risk.

Are you people serious? It's not cool to risk taking drugs to see what happens , or to prove that your guess is nothing bad will happen.

On the same token, it's not cool to risk placing an admitted sex
offender (admits to lewd conduct) with access to your children.

I hope there are some kids or teens in Pleasanton that can talk sense into parents that placing an admitted lewd act Priest as their leader is not in the best interest of children.

Maybe kids can remind you that you taught them that they shouldn't be around potential danger. Maybe kids can remind you
that you taught them that they should not gamble with their health?

Maybe kids can remind you that you said you would always protect them.
Maybe kids can wake you up to sensible thinking.

Posted by Lewis, a CCOP Member
a resident of Dublin
on Nov 15, 2007 at 8:40 am

I do not understand Matt Morisson's writing here. Is he trying to argue the merits and leagality of this case? This is a church, where parishioners go to to pray, look for spiritual healings and directions, and moral values. As christians, we all can agree on forgiveness. But move him to an office job and if anyone is interested in his sermons, then he/she can go him. Fr. Dan, please move him to somewhere else where he can do some office job and that is the most honorable thing to do for him at this point.

Posted by Jennifer
a resident of Bonde Ranch
on Nov 15, 2007 at 9:23 am

Apparenlty Matt has a lot of time on his hands.

I can forgive but that doesn't mean I can forgive myself when my boys get a little older and ask me why we continued to be a part of this church when we knew what this man did.

I am renouncing my family from the Catholic Church. Joey, you are a hero for bringing this to our attention. Unfortunately a lot of people are just too ignorant and turn the other way. This is the problem with the Catholic church and always will be. Shame on the Archbishop for allowing this man to continue to be a part of the community. I know that this would never be tolerated in a school.....

Posted by ---
a resident of another community
on Nov 15, 2007 at 10:08 am

Jennifer, Do you go to church other than Easter and Christmas? I find it interesting that you are that willing to "renounce your family" from the church. Maybe you do not get out of chruch what you are supposed to. The priests are not what make up the church. It is our beliefs and values that make up the church. I assume you do not know Fr. Greene. In the 5 years that he was at our church (after the incident took place) he has changed a lot of peoples lives for the better. Many people were sorry to see him leave. He started programs with compassion that we haven't had for a long time. His sermons are ones that my family continues to talk about beyond the church doors. I believe his past has made him a more understanding and caring person. Have you not done something in your past that you wish not to talk about? He is human just like all of us.

Our community is strong and not judgemental. We are welcoming Fr. Greene with open arms.

I agree with Jennifer when she said "a lot of people are just too ignorant and turn the other way" and "I know that this would never be tolerated in a school". I went to catholic school for 4 years and a lot of "turn the other way" happened. It's like you can sin all you want and then just wipe it out with one visit to confession. So if a person can kidnap or murder another human, they can just go to confession and have it all wiped out? NO, they go to jail and pay the price. Tell me, if a teacher did this same exact thing, would you as a parent that had a kid in his or her class still want him or her teaching your kids? Priests are human like you have all said and have to play by the same rules as the rest of us.

Actually, this "turn the other way attitude" is not only a characteristic of the Catholic Church. Just look at all the discussion from the Katie McKewon incident and you will see that this attitude is rampant in our American culture.

Posted by Faith does not lie in the walls of the Church
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Nov 15, 2007 at 12:05 pm

I was raised in a Catholic environment and went to private catholic schools all through my school years even college. What scares me the most is that the people running the whole church do not realize that these priests,nuns, etc. are but human and they have the same urges as any other pervert out there, they just hide behind the facts that they are supposed to be adorned by us parishoners... I can never trust anyone be it a preist,coach,nun etc alone with my child...unfortunately there are sick people out there no matter what kind of clothes they wear...I would take the man out of this situation...it will never get better...

Posted by ---
a resident of Pleasanton Meadows
on Nov 15, 2007 at 12:12 pm

Mr Piscitelli, You are clearly in need of more counseling on what happened to you. I'm sorry what that, but you're comments are out of line and are slanderous. There are no indications of any incidents with children. You're on a vendetta, please take your revenge motive some place else and stop making up things that aren't there.

I'll tell you what, there aren't a lot of guys who haven't played with themselves. Granted not many in a public place, but to label a man forever for one lousy decision is nonsensical.

But then, I'm sure you've never done something you regret, in public, and would be extremely embarrassed by even if you didn't get caught. I'd bet money you have.

Father Green is a good man and a great priest. If you choose to move away from the Catholic Church because of this then you probably didn't believe in what the Church stands for anyway. There a plenty of Catholic churches nearby if you choose to avoid CCOP.

I THOUGHT that the topic is about Fr. Padraig and not Mr. Piscitelli. Fr. Padraig is clearly loved by many in the parish. In my opinion, the parish community will come to better understanding after long discussion and soul searching. I don't think that Fr. Padraig is a bad person but I do believe that he is mentally ill. Healthy people don't loiter in public toilets where homosexuals congregate and child prostitutes negotiate sex. There is word circulating in San Francisco, where I work, that Dignity is preparing to ask St. Augustine Parish if they can meet there weekly. They are happy to hear that St. Augustines is a GLBT sensitive and appreciative parish. They are truly fortunate! Now that Fr. Padraig's offensive behavior has destroyed the trust, how can anybody expect others to cooperate with the Pastor? Why not start the New Year with a message of hope and love. Fr. Padraig can find a less stressful job within the diocese and this matter will be over....PLEASE.

Posted by Anne active member of CCOP
a resident of Las Positas
on Nov 15, 2007 at 1:12 pm

Padraig Greene (he does not deserve to be called 'Father')
please resign. Stand up for who you really are and do not hide behind a Roman Collar and the Priesthood. We are sick and tired of lies,secrets and hypocracy.

This event is very sad! If this priest comes to Pleasanton the church will never be the same. The division of the church family will never recover. This priest will never be trusted by everyone. Maybe he will never make this mistake again but who wants to run the risk that he might. The fact that the Catholic church has been less than upfront in the past makes everyone question this. What if something was to happen and a child was involved could you ever forgive your self. I am sorry but the idea that a grown man let alone a man of the cloth goes to a park in Oakland to do this I find gross! Take the question of children out of this and I still find it gross.

To the person who is going by the name of ---, a resident of the Pleasanton Meadows neighborhood. Tell me, if a teacher did this same exact thing, would you as a parent want that teacher teaching your kids? If any teacher did that, would you want him or her to be fired? Priests, no matter how good or great they are has to live by the same rules as the rest of us.

Posted by carol member of ccop
a resident of Kottinger Ranch
on Nov 15, 2007 at 1:26 pm

Thank you Joey Piscitelli.
Did you know that everybody who works with children at Father Greene's former parish in Fremont, has to be finger printed?
What a joke, when the priest himself is a clear and present danger!
We do not want him as our new pastor. We can not trust him. The feelings which come up when he holds up the host during consecration.............

Posted by CCOP Member
a resident of Heritage Valley
on Nov 15, 2007 at 1:39 pm

I feel so betrayed and hurt by the Catholic Church. Again another lie and cover-up. I have forgiven P. Greene, which we as Christians must strive to do, but I also agree that he should not be our pastor. This lie has split our community. A community that has always been strong and worked together as one for the glorification of our Lord. Even though I know that these words will not change the minds of the leaders of the Catholic Church as they are just one big "Boys Club"!.

Padraig Greene must have been looking for something, or why would he drive to a public park in Oakland, 20 miles away, use a restroom known for gay activities and masturbate openly? Doesn't that come close to soliciting sex? Had he not been seen by a police officer...
Go look for another job.
Do not devide our parish community any more.

Posted by Evelyn
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Nov 15, 2007 at 2:01 pm

The title 'Father', which the Catholic Church uses for some of it's employees, is manipulative. When we have to call someone 'Father', we are placed in a position of submission. The word implies someone who has many levels of authority over the people who must call him 'Father'. We assume benevolence, and we give power to 'Fathers'. It's not a mistake that the Church uses this word, and many people have been hurt and will continue to be hurt because they believe all that the word 'Father' implies.

Posted by Fran a member of CCOP
a resident of Pleasanton Village
on Nov 15, 2007 at 2:04 pm

I have been a member of CCOP for just over 8 years. My first experiences with CCOP in 1999 and 2000 were ones that would forever change the way I feel about our wonderful church and congregation. Each year I attend reconciliation services because I know I am far from being a perfect human being. There isn't one of us that doesn't have their own flaws. How would you all feel to have some of those flaws drug through the newspapers? Those that are saying such hateful things should take a moment to look inside themselves and see if the reasons they are acting this way is because they see some of themselves in this one person for this ONE offense.

As a child, I was sexually molested, but not by a priest, by a family member. As an adult Fr. Padraig helped me to find a way to deal with that pain by introducing me to a counselor. I don't think he would have been able to help me through the pain if he hadn't been and is a compassionate man. It took time, but I have forgiven my molestor and the people that should have been protecting me. It was probably the hardest thing I have ever had to forgive in my life. But by doing so I have found that I can find forgiveness for transgressions easier.

Can we all put this behind us? It is the past and should remain in the past. Digging it up and rehashing it at every possible turn only hurts a lot more people. Enough already, stop throwing stones unless you are without sin!

Did you know that ANYONE

Fr. Padraig will always have my respect and admiration. He was a great associate pastor during the 5 years that he was at CCOP and I believe whole heartedly that he will be a great pastor for CCOP for the next 20+ years.

Posted by Fran a member of CCOP
a resident of Pleasanton Village
on Nov 15, 2007 at 2:07 pm

Correction:

I have been a member of CCOP for just over 8 years. My first experiences with CCOP in 1999 and 2000 were ones that would forever change the way I feel about our wonderful church and congregation. Each year I attend reconciliation services because I know I am far from being a perfect human being. There isn't one of us that doesn't have their own flaws. How would you all feel to have some of those flaws drug through the newspapers? Those that are saying such hateful things should take a moment to look inside themselves and see if the reasons they are acting this way is because they see some of themselves in this one person for this ONE offense.

As a child, I was sexually molested, but not by a priest, by a family member. As an adult Fr. Padraig helped me to find a way to deal with that pain by introducing me to a counselor. I don't think he would have been able to help me through the pain if he hadn't been and is a compassionate man. It took time, but I have forgiven my molestor and the people that should have been protecting me. It was probably the hardest thing I have ever had to forgive in my life. But by doing so I have found that I can find forgiveness for transgressions easier.

Can we all put this behind us? It is the past and should remain in the past. Digging it up and rehashing it at every possible turn only hurts a lot more people. Enough already, stop throwing stones unless you are without sin!

Did you know that ANYONE in any parish in the country has to be fingerprinted? It isn't just at one church, it is at all churches.

Fr. Padraig will always have my respect and admiration. He was a great associate pastor during the 5 years that he was at CCOP and I believe whole heartedly that he will be a great pastor for CCOP for the next 20+ years.

Posted by Emily
a resident of Alisal Elementary School
on Nov 15, 2007 at 2:31 pm

In all of this discussion Father Dan has gotten off free. Does no one remember that eight years ago he was chastized by Bishop Cummins for secretly (note the word "secretly") carrying out gay weddings at St Eliz. Seton? Cummins told him to stop but he said he would continue to do this (homosexual blessing ceremonies he called them) in private homes. It was in all the newspapers, including the Contra Costa Times. Can you not see that we did not get Padraig Green by accident?
On Sunday Danielson will "come clean" about it all and mount a defense. But prior to Mr Pescatelli's leafleting he was happy to maintain another little secret.

Posted by Paul, a member of CCOP
a resident of Dublin
on Nov 15, 2007 at 5:42 pm

We have to understand the fact that the warm, charismatic, outgoing, compassionate personality that makes a clergy or any person likeable is the same personality that is used to gain access to and ultimately betray innocent kids and/or vulnerable adults. I agree that we have to forgive this man. But move him somewhere else where he can do other job. I can not imagine him to be a Pastor to guide his flock, both morally and spiritually. Please DO NOT make him a Pastor of this wonderful community.

Posted by Henry, a member of CCOP
a resident of Ruby Hill
on Nov 15, 2007 at 5:52 pm

Whoever is posting the comments without a name and writing as "--" does not even have the courage to put his/her name out but he/she is criticizing Joey. We all should thank Joey for bringing this matter to our attention. My family and I have been actively participating in this church for the past seven years and have attended several of his masses. We volunteer for several activities in this church. But now, after knowing what has happened, I will look at him in a suspicious manner and will not be able to give him the respect that I gave him before. All the parishioners, please wake up and raise your voice so that everyone's voice is heard in making this kind of decisions. Please do not let this pass by. Please do not let a handful of parish council members and the Pastor decide whom we are going to have as our next Pastor.

Let's face it, if he doesn't stay in Pleasanton, the Catholic Church will just move him somewhere else. The Catholic Church is the master of the cover-up. We are Catholic, but have not been practicing because of things like this. The fact that Padraig was getting his rocks off in public is not normal by anyone's st andards. There is no way I would let him around my kids.

Posted by Henry, a member of CCOP
a resident of Ruby Hill
on Nov 15, 2007 at 6:14 pm

I just saw a posting on the CCOP website Web Link
an announcement from the Diocese of Oakland. The posting does not even say who in the diocese has posted this information, Basically the diocese and the Pastor are trying to affirm his appointment. No wonder several Bishops, Cardinals and Pastors were dragged into the court cases regarding Sexual Abuses by Priests. Probably, this is the way they have been protecting the abusive priests.

We can easily say that we will not allow our kids to be around him. The better way to avoid is to try to stop him from becoming a Pastor.

I would sugggest to Fr. Greene to withdraw his name and move to somewhere else and let this community to have a peaceful atmosphere as we used to enjoy.

Posted by Frank
a resident of Walnut Grove Elementary School
on Nov 15, 2007 at 7:07 pm

I am a parishioner of the Pleasanton Catholic Community. I do not want to see Father Greene as Pastor of our churches. While I am one to forgive and forget, I also believe that people who hold higher post should have a higher moral standing. Father Greene violated our trust by getting caught with his "pants down" if you will. Convicted or not the man is a sexual deviant. He is not going to do any thing for our church but drive people away and make enemies of brothers and sisters in this loving community of ours. I welcome him to our church but NOT as our leader.

I don't think Matt has too much time on his hands. In fact, his postings have made more sense than most. Also, I thank Robert, Chris, Maria and Fran for their contributions.

We should not be making any SNAP decisions based on what Joey has been telling us. According to him, no criminal can be redeemed. An alcoholic will stay drunk, a druggie will stay high and a pervert will continue chasing our kids - you get the picture. I do not subscribe to his "sky is falling" scenario and still find it odd that he has waited until now to ride to our rescue.

Bottom line - I would trust Father Greene with any or all of my grandkids at any time, any place.

Posted by Member of CCOP
a resident of Heritage Valley
on Nov 15, 2007 at 7:51 pm

Maybe you could answer the question as to why p. greene needs a condo in Emeryville which he just recently purchased???????????? I am also concerned about the favoritism that he shows....a pastor should not do for one what he cannot do for all. Fr. Dan was a very good role model at that.

Posted by Jeb Bing
editor of the Pleasanton Weekly
on Nov 15, 2007 at 8:32 pmJeb Bing is a registered user.

We're intentionally giving topics pertaining to the Rev. Padraig Greene a rest because the postings have become repetitive and, in some instances, accusatory without factual support. We will be covering breaking news on this story both online and in our print edition as those in the Catholic community deal with their concerns.

Posted by Henry, a member of CCOP
a resident of Ruby Hill
on Nov 15, 2007 at 8:51 pm

It was Joey Piscitelli, who opened our eyes. Please thank him for that. Fr Dan and at least a few members of the parish council who were aware this hid this from the rest of us until Joey brought it to our notice. Please understand that he is not getting paid. His experience is "real" and try to understand that he is spending time to alert us. Please do not say that SNAP is exaggerating this issue. The people associated with this group are the ones who were abused by the ones who every parent trusted and try to understand what they have been going through in their lives. They want us to be aware of these things so that we can better protect us and our kids.

My families have been brought up in Catholic Schools and Colleges and all of us are practicing catholics. Whenever I read and heard that people are speaking against the Pastors and Bishops who moved the the priests who had the history of sexual problems, from parish to parish, I used pray for those Bishops and Pastors. I always thought that they acted according to the Christian faith and they did not know that these things would not happen again. But they did happen again and those priests went on to molest the kids and we all know the rest of what happened. There is a similarity here!!! Now, we all know what has happened with Fr. Greene and we have a chance to be alert and act and prevent this from happening here.

Fr. Greene may be a good in giving sermons and if so he can be posted in a place where anyone who wants his spiritual advice can go. I do not want to see him as the leader of this group, making decisions for the community. But, I will be able to accept him as an Associate.

If Fr. Dan, the Diocese and the parish council would like to follow democratic process, they should get the opinion from the entire parish by secret ballot so that every parishoner can express his/her opininon freely before proceeding to confirm his the next Pastor. If not, Fr. Greene will not enjoy the support, prayers and wishes of entire community.

It has been acknowledged that the incident occured. I believe that as Christians, we are to forgive him. However, Fr. Greene chose this location because of its reputation. Whether or not children were present or involved at that time, or not, is not the issue for us. Our concern should be that, if Fr. Green becomes our pastor, we will be putting him in a position of leadership to our own children & youth. Since his reputation is now known to everyone, he will have no credibility, nor can he be trusted, in such a roll. I think the bishop must find someone else to serve as our shepherd.